Written by “Diagnosis and healing from a pilonidal cyst can be long drawn. Each stage is a challenging period until complete recovery happens. Understanding it and taking corrective action at every step is the only way to get over the painful growth.”
Dr. Allen Kamrava MD MBA has helped many patients effectively manage their pilonidal cyst diagnosis.
A hairy body, obesity and hygiene concerns are seen as the biggest risk factors for pilonidal cyst. But many develop it even without being at risk. The treatment focus is to get rid of the growth and pilonidal cyst removal surgery is the most effective.
Understanding The Cyst Growth
It all starts with an unwanted growth at the end of the tailbone. People try to manage the pilonidal cyst on their own but seeking pilonidal cyst treatment is very important. The accumulation of hair roots and skin followed by pus accumulation in the cyst make it painful and challenging.
Diagnosis of Pilonidal Cyst
Although the unusual location of the growth gives clear indications of it being a pilonidal cyst, a colorectal surgeon is the best person to confirm it. A physical examination of the tailbone area and taking note of the symptoms are the two main steps for diagnosis of pilonidal cyst.
Redness, pain, pus and drainage are the main symptoms. Fever and chills are seen in cases of severe infection.
Treatment Options
Pilonidal cyst antibiotic treatment is generally the first line of action. It is a conservative method. But it is typically helpful in patients who have small and acute cysts. In chronic cysts and cases where the size of the cyst is big and complexity of the case is severe, pilonidal cyst removal surgery is recommended.
Surgical Excision
Once the antibiotic treatment is tried, the plan to surgically remove the cyst is formalised. The colorectal surgeon will schedule an appointment for the procedure. He will issue a list of do’s and don’ts for eating and lifestyle habits to be followed during this preparation phase. You’ll be put off blood thinners, if you are taking them.
During the surgery, the first step is to cut open the cyst and drain it completely. The size of the incision will depend on the size of the cyst. Local or general anesthesia is used as per individual and case requirements. After removing the cyst and infected area, the doctor will either switch the wound together or leave it open to heal inside out. Open wounds heal slowly but recurrence rate is low and vice versa for closed wound surgeries.
Recovery Time
The road to healing is long and the healing happens at a very slow pace. It is important to follow all the instructions at this time. These guidelines are different for different types of surgeries. But what to eat and how to sit after a pilonidal cyst excision are important aspects to take note of. Complete recovery usually happens in 2-6 months depending upon the type of surgery.
Final Thoughts
When managing a pilonidal cyst, the experience and skill of a colorectal surgeon are very important. Dr Allen Kamrava MD MBA is a trusted and established name in this domain. Book and appointment to understand the best way to treat your pilonidal cyst.
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